So the other week myself and the family had the most splendid adventure away to the county of our former residence, Northumberland. We ventured the delights of Alnwick, Alnmouth, Seahouses and Holy Island. It seems sort of odd thinking of Northumberland as a holiday destination again. For a long time it was home but before and after that it was a place for holidays.
I managed to visit some pubs including the old favourite The John Bull, as well as newer venues like The Ale Gate and The Pig In Muck. It was a great night and it is still obvious the North East beer scene is still formidable although has moved on alittle with new beers and new breweries of the region. A few of these I managed to get hold of from Turnbull's Butchers new farm shop.
Prior to leaving the North East beer scene the Farmhouse brewery Rigg & Furrow were a fairly new outfit. Agriculture is a saison cross lager hybrid. Both hoppy and dry it balances the line between refreshing yet sophisticated. Moving on Full Circle Brew Co are a new Newcastle based brewery, Looper is a full on Hazy 6.4% IPA featuring opal fruits, tropical and stone fruit. Minimal bitterness, soft mouthfeel, very modern.
First and Last Damson Porter was recommended. The term juicy comes to mind, like biting into a plumb. Loads of damson flavour and liquorice with a nice balance between richness and drinkability.
None the less the holiday wasn't entirely about beer. It was great to see the old haunts again plus old friends. Next time I will remember to bring a jumper.
